WATER

The desert is an extreme environment. Carry enough water, one gallon per person per day, and

drink it. Water is available at visitor centers, campgrounds, Zion Lodge, and other locations. Do not drink untreated water.

Map and GuideThe official newspaper of Zion National Park

Winter 2013-2014

Plan Your VisitWelcome to Zion National Park. Steep cliffs, narrow canyons, and unpredictable weather add to the challenge and adventure of a visit, so it is important to plan carefully for your stay. Park rangers at the visitor centers can provide planning information and weather forecasts, but your safety depends on your own good judgment,

adequate preparation, and constant awareness.

STEEP CLIFFS

Falls from cliffs on trails have resulted in death. Ice, loose sand, and pebbles are very slippery.

Be aware of edges when using cameras or binoculars. Never throw or roll rocks because there may be hikers below you.

• Stay on the trail.• Avoid cliff edges.• Observe posted warnings.• Please watch children.

DRIVING

Park roads are used by vehicles, bicycles, walkers, and even wildlife. Obey posted speed limits.

Unless otherwise posted, the maximum speed limit in the park is 35 mph.

Seat belts or child safety seats are required for all occupants in a vehicle.

ZION ANNUAL PASS$50Admission to Zion National Park for one year from date of purchase.

ANNUAL PASS$80Admission to all federal fee areas for one year from date of purchase.

All passes are available at park entrance stations. Information about interagency passes and participating agencies (NPS, BLM, FWS, FS, and BOR) is available online at store.usgs.gov/pass.

SENIOR PASS$10Admission to all federal fee areas for life, U.S. citizens 62 years or older.

ACCESS PASSFreeAdmission to all federal fee areas for life, permanently disabled U.S. citizens.

National Park Service U.S. Department of the InteriorZion National Park

NPS

To protect park resources, park only in designated spaces and turn off your engine when your vehicle is stopped.

Don’t drink and drive. For your safety, park rangers enforce laws against alcohol and drug-related driving offenses, including open container violations.

For Utah road conditions, please call 866-511-8824.

HYPOTHERMIA

Hypothermia occurs when the body is cooled to dangerous levels. It is the number one killer

of outdoor recreationists, even in warm

weather, and it usually happens without the victim’s awareness. It is a hazard in narrow canyons because immersion in water is the quickest way to lose body heat. To prevent hypothermia, avoid cotton clothing because it provides no insulation when wet and eat high energy food before you are chilled. Signs of hypothermia include:

• uncontrollable shivering• stumbling and poor coordination• fatigue and weakness• confusion or slurred speech

If you recognize any of these signs, stop hiking and immediately replace wet clothing and add insulating layers.

The Streaked Wall

Hours of Operation & Fees Zion Canyon 8:00 am to 5:00 pmVisitor Center Closed 12/25

Zion Canyon 8:00 am to 4:30 pmWilderness Desk Closed 12/25

Zion Human 10:00 am to 5:00 pmHistory Museum Opens 3/08

Kolob Canyons 8:00 am to 4:30 pmVisitor Center Closed 12/25

Fees: $25 per vehicle; $12 per individual: pedestrian, bicycle, motorcycle, or organized group. Entrance fees are valid for seven days.

2 Map and Guide

Zion National Park SuperintendentJock Whitworth

Mailing AddressZion National ParkSpringdale, UT 84767

Park Information435 772-3256

Wilderness Information435 772-0170

Websitewww.nps.gov/zion

E-mailzion_park_information@nps.gov

Lost and FoundReport at any visitor center

Emergencies911 or 435 772-3322

National Park ServiceU.S. Department of the Interior

During a flash flood, the water level rises within minutes or even seconds. A flash flood can rush down a canyon in a wall of water over twelve feet high.

Wildlife EmergenciesFor 24-hour emergency response, call 911 or 435-772-3322. The Zion Canyon Medical Clinic is located in Springdale near the south entrance to the park. For hours, please call 435-772-3226. Other medical clinics are located in Hurricane. The nearest hospitals are in St. George, Cedar City, and Kanab.

ServicesACCESSIBILITY

Most park facilities are accessible. Wheelchairs are available for loan at the Zion Canyon Visitor

Center for the visitor center area. All shuttle buses are wheelchair accessible. Mobility devices must be smaller than 30” x 46” and have a combined weight of less than 600 lbs. Service dogs are permitted on a leash throughout the park.

Campsites are available for people with disabilities. The Pa’rus Trail and the Riverside Walk have accessible hikes with assistance. The Zion Lodge has several accessible hotel rooms and one accessible cabin with a roll-in shower. The Zion Lodge also has a wheelchair available for loan.

The orientation film offers captioning and the frontcountry trails video has an audio description. Assistive listening devices are available by reservation for all ranger-led programs. Please visit the Zion Human History Museum for information about borrowing assistive listening devices.

LODGING

In the park, the Zion Lodge has rooms, suites, and cabins. To make reservations, please call

888-297-2757 or 435-772-7700, or visit zionlodge.com. There are other lodging options in surrounding communities.

RESTAURANTS

In the park, the Zion Lodge dining room and café serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Dinner reservations are required; please call 435-772-7760. There are many restaurants in surrounding communities.

GROCERIES

There are grocery and convenience stores in Springdale, La Verkin, Hurricane, Kanab, St.

George, and Cedar City.

MONEY

There is an ATM at the Zion Lodge. Banks and ATMs are located in most surrounding communities.

SHOWERS

There are no showers available within Zion National Park. Pay showers are available

in Springdale and east of the park. The availability of these services varies throughout the year.

LAUNDRY

There are laundry facilities located in Springdale, Hurricane, and Kanab. There are

no laundry facilities within the park.

PETS

Leashed pets may be walked on the Pa’rus Trail. However, pets are not permitted on any

other trails, on shuttles, in public buildings, or in the wilderness. Pets must be under physical control on a leash less than six feet at all times. The interior temperature of a vehicle can quickly warm to dangerous levels. Avoid leaving animals in vehicles. Boarding kennels are available in Rockville, Kanab, Hurricane, St. George, and Cedar City.

Zion National Park is home to 69 species of mammals, 208 birds, 29 reptiles, six amphibians, and nine fish. Commonly

seen animals include mule deer, lizards, and many species of birds. Rare or endangered species include the peregrine falcon, Mexican spotted owl, California condor, desert tortoise, and the Zion snail, found only in Zion National Park.

MOUNTAIN LIONS

Mountain lions are present in the park. Attacks are unlikely and have never been reported in the park. Please watch children closely and never let them run ahead or lag behind. More information is posted at trailheads. Please report any sightings or encounters to a park ranger as soon as possible.

DESERT BIGHORN SHEEP

Desert bighorn sheep are often seen on the east side of the park. Although they naturally shy away from people, some of these animals have grown accustomed to visitors in the park. Please do not approach or feed bighorn sheep.

RESPECT WILDLIFE

Please keep all animals wild and healthy by viewing them from a safe distance. Do not feed or touch wildlife. Store food and trash responsibly.

SICK OR INJURED ANIMALS

Be aware that wild animals can be unpredictable. Do not approach animals or attempt to move sick or injured wildlife. Please report any sick or injured animals to a park ranger.

Flash FloodsAll narrow canyons are potentially hazardous. Flash floods, often caused by storms miles away, are a real danger and can be

life threatening. You are assuming a risk when entering a narrow canyon. Your safety is your responsibility.

Watch for indications of a possible flash flood. If you observe any of these signs, seek higher ground immediately:

• deterioration in weather conditions• build up of clouds or thunder• sudden changes in water clarity from

clear to muddy• floating debris• rising water levels or stronger currents• increasing roar of water up canyon

“The squirrel bit me in less than a second.” Wild animals can hurt you. Do not feed them.

NPS

NPS

CAMPING

Campgrounds in Zion Canyon have restrooms, drinking water, picnic tables, fire grates, dump

stations, and recycling. All sites are half price for holders of Interagency Senior and Access Passes. There are no showers available within Zion National Park. Pay showers are available in Springdale and east of the park. The availability of these services varies throughout the year.

FIRES

When fire danger is high, all campfires may be prohibited. When permitted, fires are only

allowed in fire grates in the campgrounds. Bring or buy firewood. Collecting any type of wood in the park is prohibited.

BICYCLING

Bicycles may travel on roadways and on the Pa’rus Trail. Bicycles are not allowed off roadways

or in the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel. When riding from the South Entrance, use the Pa’rus Trail instead of the main road. Do not pass a moving vehicle. The rules of the road apply to bicycles. Please ride on the right side of the road in single file and wear your helmet.

CLIMBING

The sandstone cliffs of Zion National Park are famous for big wall climbs. Zion is not a place for

inexperienced climbers. Climbing in the park requires appropriate hardware and advanced technical skills. There are few top roping areas and no sport climbs. Permits are not required for day climbs, but they are required for all overnight bivouacs. Climbing information and route descriptions are available at the Zion Canyon Wilderness Desk in the Zion Canyon Visitor Center.

Some areas and routes are closed each year to climbing from early March through August to protect nesting peregrine falcons. Some areas that are routinely closed to climbing include The Great White Throne, Cable Mountain, Court of the Patriarchs, and Angels Landing. Check at visitor centers or visit www.nps.gov/zion for current closure information.

Map and Guide 3

WatchmanCampground

SouthCampgroundOpens 3/01

Lava PointCampgroundClosed in winter

Group CampsitesOrganized groupsof 9 to 40 people

Fees

$16 per night$18 per night for electric hookups$20 per night for river sites

$16 per night

No fee

$3 per person per night

Sites

183

126

6

6

Campgrounds

Private campgrounds with showers and hookups are available outside the park. South Campground is closed from November 4 through February 28. Watchman Campground is first-come, first-served from December 1 through February 28. Lava Point Campground is closed in winter. The number of available campsites may vary throughout the year.

Reservations

www.recreation.gov877-444-6777Up to six months in advance

First-come, first-served

First-come, first-served

www.recreation.gov877-444-6777

Recreation

HORSEBACK RIDING

Horses traditionally have been used to explore the terrain of Zion National Park. Guided trips are

available in season starting at the corral near the Emerald Pools Trailhead. For private stock use, see the Wilderness Guide or inquire at visitor centers.

WATERCRAFT

All watercraft use in Zion National Park requires a wilderness permit. Permits are issued only

when the river is flowing in excess of 150 cubic feet per second. Inner tubes are not permitted at any time on any watercourse in the park.

HIKING ANDCANYONEERING

Hiking in canyons, even short hikes, requires advance planning. Some

hikes involve walking in water. Rivers and washes are subject to flash flooding. Know the weather and flash flood potential forecasts before starting your trip. Daily forecasts are posted in park visitor centers. Many canyons require ropes, hardware, and advanced technical skills for rappelling and ascending.

BACKPACKING

Permits are required for all wilderness camping. There is a fee. Permits and hiking information

are available at visitor centers. The maximum group size is 12 people. Please read the Wilderness Guide for more information.

WILDERNESS PERMITS

Permits are required for overnight trips, through-hikes of The Narrows and its tributaries, The

Subway (Left Fork), Kolob Creek, and all canyons requiring the use of technical equipment. Reservations are available online for many permits at www.nps.gov/zion. Permits must be obtained at the visitor centers before your trip.

Wilderness permit fees are based on the size of your group: • $10 for 1-2 people• $15 for 3-7 people• $20 for 8-12 people

The maximum group size is 12 people of the same affiliation on the same trail or in the same drainage on the same day. The limit for some canyons is six people.

THE NARROWS

The Virgin River has carved a spectacular gorge in upper Zion Canyon—16 miles long,

up to 2,000-feet deep, and at times only 20 to 30-feet wide. The Narrows, with its soaring walls, sandstone grottos, and hanging gardens can be an unforgettable experience. It is not, however, a trip to be underestimated. Hiking The Narrows means hiking in the river. At least 60 percent of the hike is spent wading, walking, and sometimes swimming in the river. There is no maintained trail because the route is the river. The current is swift, the water may be cold and deep, and the rocks underfoot are

slippery. Flash flooding and hypothermia are constant dangers. Good planning, proper equipment, and sound judgment are essential for a safe and successful trip. Your safety is your responsibility.

There are three ways to hike The Narrows, weather and water conditions permitting. In winter, the top down hike is not advised. Dry suits are needed for the day hike. High water levels can prevent access.

DAY HIKE FROM THE BOTTOM AND BACK

This round-trip hike can last up to eight hours and is the simplest way to experience The Narrows. Start at the Temple of Sinawava, walk one mile to the end of the paved Riverside Walk, and begin wading up the river. There is no formal destination and you must return the same way you entered. Many hikers try to reach the junction with Orderville Canyon, a tributary creek approximately two hours upstream from the paved trail. A permit is not required. Group size limits apply past Orderville Canyon. Travel upstream into Orderville Canyon or past Big Spring is prohibited.

DAY HIKE FROM TOP TO BOTTOM

This strenuous 16-mile all-day hike requires a permit and a private shuttle to the trailhead. Please see the Wilderness Guide or inquire at the Zion Canyon Wilderness Desk for more information.

OVERNIGHT HIKE FROM TOP TO BOTTOM

This two-day hike requires a permit and a private shuttle to the trailhead. Maximum stay is one night. Please see the Wilderness Guide or inquire at the Zion Canyon Wilderness Desk for more information.

THE NARROWS CHECKLIST

• Obtain weather and flash flood potential forecasts before your trip.

• Wear closed-toe shoes or sturdy boots with ankle support, not sandals or water shoes.

• Take a walking stick. Do not cut tree branches for sticks.

• Children should not hike in the river due to strong currents and deep pools.

• Carry out all trash, including food wrappers, apple cores, fruit peels, and toilet paper.

• Carry a gallon of drinking water per person per day, food, and first aid kit.

• Wear warm clothing. The Narrows is much cooler than other areas in Zion.

• Pack your gear in waterproof bags.• Use the restroom at the Riverside Walk

trailhead before hiking. There are no toilets in The Narrows.

The GrottoZion Lodge

Kayenta Trail

The Grotto Trail

UpperEmeraldPool Trail

LowerEmerald

Pool Trail

0.5mi

0.6mi1.0mi

0.5mi

4 Map and Guide

15

9

9 9

9

17

59

15

Grafton(ghost town) Rockville

Springdale

VirginLa Verkin

Toquerville

Hurricane

To Cedar City, Utah,Cedar Breaks NM, and

Salt Lake City, Utah

To St. George,Utah and LasVegas, Nevada

To Pipe Spring National Monument andGrand Canyon National Park

To at Mt. CarmelJunction, Utah, BryceCanyon NP, GrandCanyon NP, Kanab,Utah and Page, Arizona

89

To at Exit 16,St. George, Utah and Las Vegas,Nevada

15

Exit40

Exit27

Exit42

Kolob Canyons Road

Kol

ob

Ter

race

Roa

d

West Rim Rd

Zion

Can

yon

Scen

ic D

rive

Zion - Mount Carmel Highway

TunnelKolo

b Te

rrac

e R

oad

Smith

sonian Butte Scenic Backway

Grafton Road BridgeRoad

Lava Point Rd

Beyond this point, the roadis not plowed in winter.

Unpaved roads are impassable when wet.

Unpaved roads are impassable when wet.Smithsonian ButteScenic Backway maybe closed in winter.

Vehicles pulling trailers are not recommended. Narrow winding roadwith steep grades. The upper section is not plowed in winter.

Vehicles longer than 19 feet/5.8 meters are

not allowed on Lava Point Road. Unpaved roads are impassable

when wet.

TunnelNo bikes or pedestriansallowed. Large vehiclerestrictions on page 8.

From October 27through March 31,the Zion CanyonScenic Drive is opento private vehicles.

Anasazi Way

ChinleTrailhead

Left ForkTrailhead

Right ForkTrailhead

GrapevineTrailhead

Hop ValleyTrailhead

Lee PassTrailhead

West RimTrailhead

WildcatCanyonTrailhead

La V

erki

n Cr

eek

Trai

l

La Verkin

C

reek

Tra

il

Hop Valley Trail

Taylor Creek Trail

Wildca

t Ca

nyon

Trail

Northgate Peaks

Trail

Connector Trail

West R

im Trail

West Rim Trail

East Rim Trail

Chinle Trail KolobArchTrail

Timber CreekOverlook

Trail

RiversideWalk

KolobArch

Z I ON

C

AN

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K O L O B

C A N Y O N S

HU

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UPP

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K

OLO

B

PLA

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AU

HO

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E P

AS

TU

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SMITH MESA

LO

WER K

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B PLATEAU

HU

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PA R U N U W E A P C A N Y O N

ORDERVILLE CANYON

TH

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East Fork Virgin River

N

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h Fo

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Riv

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North Fork Virgin River

Virgin River

La V

erki

n

Cre

ek

Taylor Creek

KolobReservoir8118ft2475m

5mi8km

6mi10km

14mi23km

5mi8km

20mi33km

10mi16km

3.6mi5.8km

1.4mi2.2km

6.2mi10km

10mi16km

KolobCanyons

Viewpoint

Lava PointLava Point

Overlook

Temple ofSinawava

Emerald PoolsTrails

Canyon Junction

The Grotto

Zion Lodge

Coalpits Wash

Springdale / Zion Canyon Shuttleand Zion-Mount Carmel Highway

and Tunnel information

South

Watchman

EastEntrance

SouthEntrance

Court of thePatriarchs

WeepingRock

Zion Canyon detail opposite

Kolob CanyonsVisitor Center

Zion Canyon Visitor Center

Zion Human History Museum

Z I O N

N A T I O N A L

P A R K

Picnic area

Restrooms

Drinking water

Campground

Primitivecampground

Ranger station

Trail

Unpaved road(impassable when wet)

Overlook / Parking

Paved road open toprivate vehicles

Visitor Information

Restaurant

Orientationfilm

0 1 2 3 4

0

5 Miles

5 Kilometers1 2 3 4North

WildernessIn 2009, Congress protected nearly 84 percent of the park as wilderness under the 1964 Wilderness Act. Wilderness designation protects forever the land’s wilderness character, natural conditions, opportunities for solitude, and scientific, educational, and historical values.

Zion National ParkEmerald Pools Trails

Map and Guide 5

Zion Canyon

9

SPRINGDALE

TunnelNo bikes or pedestrians allowed. Large vehicle restrictions on page 8.

From October 27through March 31,the Zion CanyonScenic Drive is opento private vehicles.

Eastboundparking lot

Westboundparking area

To at Mt. CarmelJunction, Utah, Bryce

Canyon NP, GrandCanyon NP, Kanab, Utah,

and Page, Arizona

To , Kolob Canyons,Cedar City, Utah, St. George,Utah, and Las Vegas, Nevada

89

15

1.1mi1.8km

3.6mi5.8km

1.4mi2.2km

6.2mi10km

1.1mi1.8km

Zion

Can

yon

Sce

nic

Dri

ve

Zion-Mount Carmel Highway

ObservationPoint

Cable Mountain

AngelsLanding

WaltersWiggles

ScoutLookout

CO

URT OF T

HE PATRIARCHS

HID

DEN

CA

NY

ON

THENARROWS

West Rim Trail

Cable Mountain Trail

East Rim Trail

Dee

rtra

p M

ountain

Tra

il

Emerald Pools Trails detail opposite

Sand

Ben

ch T

rail

Pa’rus Trail

RiversideWalk

CanyonOverlook

Trail

HiddenCanyonTrail

Archeology Trail

Watchman Trail

KayentaTrail

Grotto TrailEmeraldPoolsTrails

Zion Nature CenterSouth Campground

WatchmanCampground

North

Fo

rk

V

irgi

n

Riv

er

Lion Blvd.

Canyon Junction

Court of thePatriarchs

Temple of Sinawava

BigBend

The Grotto

Zion Lodge

Zion HumanHistory Museum

Zion Canyon Visitor Center

WeepingRock

Road distance andindicator

Hiking trail

Trails shown onHiking Guide at right

Paved road open toprivate vehicles

Overlook / Parking Restrooms

Picnic area

Wheelchair accessible

Campground

AmphitheaterRanger station

Drinking water

Visitor Information

Recycling Area

North0

0 0.5 Mile

0.5 Kilometer

Hiking Guide

Stay on established trails and watch your footing, especially at overlooks and near drop-offs. Avoid cliff edges. Watch children closely. People uncertain about heights should stop if they become uncomfortable. Never throw or roll rocks because there may be hikers below.

HikeLocation

Pa’rus TrailZion CanyonVisitor Center

Archeology TrailZion Canyon Visitor Center

Lower Emerald Pool TrailZion Lodge

The Grotto TrailZion LodgeThe Grotto

Weeping Rock TrailWeeping Rock

Riverside WalkTemple of Sinawava

Watchman TrailZion Canyon Visitor Center

Sand Bench TrailZion Lodge

Upper Emerald Pool TrailZion Lodge

Kayenta TrailThe Grotto

Canyon Overlook TrailZion-Mt. Carmel Hwy

Taylor Creek TrailKolob Canyons Road

Timber Creek Overlook TrailKolob Canyons Road

Angels Landingvia West Rim TrailThe Grotto

Hidden Canyon TrailWeeping Rock

Observation Point via East Rim TrailWeeping Rock

The Narrowsvia Riverside WalkTemple of Sinawava

Kolob Arch via La Verkin Creek Trail Kolob Canyons Road

Description

Paved trail follows the Virgin River from the South Campground to Canyon Junction. Wheelchairs may need assistance. Sections of the trail are closed for construction.Short, but steep. Starts across from the entrance to the visitor center parking lot. Climbs to the outlines of several prehistoric buildings. Trailside exhibits.

Minor drop-offs. Paved trail leads to the Lower Emerald Pool and waterfalls. Connects to the Kayenta Trail. Sections may be closed due to ice.

The trail connects the Zion Lodge to The Grotto. Can be combined with the Lower Emerald Pool and Kayenta Trails to create a 2.5-mile loop.

Short, but steep. Minor drop-offs. Paved trail ends at a rock alcove with dripping springs. Trailside exhibits. Sections may be icy or closed in winter.

Minor drop-offs. Paved trail follows the Virgin River along the bottom of a narrow canyon. Trailside exhibits. Wheelchairs may need assistance. May be icy.

Minor drop-offs. Ends at viewpoint of the Towers of the Virgin, lower Zion Canyon, and Springdale. May be muddy and icy.

Commercial horse trail from March to October. Hike atop a massive landslide under The Sentinel. May be icy.

Minor drop-offs. A sandy and rocky trail that climbs to the Upper Emerald Pool at the base of a cliff. May be icy.

Long drop-offs. An unpaved climb to the Emerald Pools. Connects The Grotto to the Emerald Pools Trails. May be icy.

Long drop-offs, mostly fenced. Rocky and uneven trail ends at viewpoint of Pine Creek Canyon and lower Zion Canyon. May be snow covered and icy.

Limited to 12 people per group. Follows the Middle Fork of Taylor Creek past two homestead cabins to Double Arch Alcove. Often snow covered.

Follows a ridge to a small peak with views of Timber Creek, Kolob Terrace, and Pine Valley Mountains. Often snow covered.

Long drop-offs. Not for young children or anyone fearful of heights. Last section is a route along a steep, narrow ridge to the summit. Often snow covered and icy. Long drop-offs. Not for anyone fearful of heights. Follows along a cliff face to the mouth of a narrow canyon. May be snow covered and icy. Long drop-offs. Climbs through Echo Canyon to viewpoint of Zion Canyon. Access to Cable Mountain, Deertrap Mountain, and East Mesa Trails. Often snow covered.Read page 3 and check conditions at the visitor center before attempting. Top down hike is not advised in winter. Dry suits are needed for day hike in winter. High water levels can prevent access.Limited to 12 people per group. Follows Timber and La Verkin Creeks. A side trail leads to Kolob Arch, one of the world’s largest freestanding arches. Often snow covered.

Round TripAverage timemi / km

2 hours3.5 / 5.6

0.5 hour0.4 / 0.6

1 hour1.2 / 1.9

0.5 hour1.0 / 1.6

0.5 hour0.4 / 0.6

1.5 hours2.2 / 3.5

2 hours2.7 / 4.3

5 hours7.6 / 12.2

1 hour1.0 / 1.6

2 hours2.0 / 3.2

1 hour1.0 / 1.6

4 hours5.0 / 8.0

0.5 hour1.0 / 1.6

4 hours5.4 / 8.7

3 hours2.4 / 3.9

6 hours8.0 / 12.9

8 hours9.4 / 15.1

8 hours14.0 / 22.5

Elevation Changeft / m

50 / 15

80 / 24

69 / 21

35 / 11

98 / 30

57 / 17

368 / 112

466 / 142

200 / 61

150 / 46

163 / 50

450 / 137

100 / 30

1488 / 453

850 / 259

2148 / 655

334 / 102

1037 / 316

Easy

Moderate

Strenuous

Winters in Zion National Park are cold and often wet. Temperatures can range from highs of 50°F to 60°F during the day

to lows well below freezing at night.

Nearly half of the annual precipitation in Zion Canyon falls between the months of December and March. Most roads are plowed, but trails may be closed due to snow and ice. After winter storms, snow typically disappears within a matter of hours at lower elevations. At higher elevations, the snow accumulates. As temperatures rise in spring, melting snow causes high water levels in the Virgin River and its tributaries.

Sun and Moon Date Sunrise SunsetDecember 1 7:27 am 5:15 pmDecember 15 7:39 am 5:16 pmJanuary 1 7:46 am 5:26 pmJanuary 15 7:45 am 5:39 pmFebruary 1 7:35 am 5:57 pmFebruary 15 7:21 am 6:12 pmMarch 1 7:03 am 6:26 pmMarch 15 7:43 am 7:39 pmApril 1 7:18 am 7:55 pm

Full MoonDecember 17January 15February 14March 16

filling stations are located at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, Zion Human History Museum, Zion Lodge, and the Temple of Sinawava.

ZION CANYON SHUTTLE SYSTEM

The shuttle system, which runs from spring to fall, was created to reduce traffic congestion, parking conflicts, pollution, noise, and resource damage. Each full shuttle reduces traffic by 28 cars. The shuttles reduce vehicle miles traveled per day by over 50,000 and reduce CO2 emissions by over 12 tons per day.

ZION CANYON VISITOR CENTER

The Zion Canyon Visitor Center is a sustainable building that incorporates the area’s natural features and energy-efficient building concepts into an attractive design, saving energy and operating expenses while protecting the environment. Natural lighting and ventilation, passive downdraft cooling towers, Trombe wall heating, and a photovoltaic system reduce energy use by more than 70 percent and prevent the annual release of 181 tons of CO2.

RENEWABLE ENERGY

Solar power provides clean energy for Zion National Park. In 2010, large photovoltaic systems were installed at the Kolob Canyons Visitor Center, the Emergency Operations Center, and Zion Headquarters. Zion generates 12 percent of its power from onsite renewable sources and purchases renewable energy to offset other sources. Efforts to reduce energy use have resulted in a 10 percent decrease since 2008.

6 Map and Guide

Weather

Environmental ImpactZion National Park is much more than just a recreational destination. It is a sanctuary of natural and cultural resources.

Conserving this heritage is a task that the National Park Service cannot accomplish alone. All of us serve a critical role in maintaining Zion’s sanctuary for the future. Please respect your national park and the experiences of others.

RECYCLING AND TRASH

Please do not litter. Carry out or recycle all of your trash, including toilet paper. The park recycling program provides disposal for plastic, aluminum, glass, paper, and other materials. Zion National Park works closely with the community

to provide many recycling options for visitors. With help from you, Zion kept over 200,000 lbs of waste out of landfills last year. Participate in recycling efforts by using the available recycling bins inside the park and in local communities.

HIKING

Please stay on marked trails. Hiking off trails can lead to loss of vegetation, soil compaction, erosion, and unsightly scars on the landscape.

WILDLIFE

Feeding, harming, or capturing wild animals is illegal and can cause injury or death to the animal. Animals can become aggressive beggars when fed.

OBJECT COLLECTION

It is illegal to remove anything from Zion National Park. Leave the flowers, rocks, and anything else that you might find for others to enjoy.

SOUNDSCAPES

Soundscapes, or sound environments, are an important natural feature of the park. Be aware of the noise that you make so that others may enjoy the peace and solitude of the park. Please travel quietly and limit the size of your group.

WATER BOTTLE FILLING STATIONS

There are several water bottle filling stations located throughout the park. To reduce waste, the sale of disposable plastic water bottles is prohibited in Zion Canyon. Support this initiative by bringing a reusable water bottle with you and using it after you leave. Water bottle

NPS

The Zion Canyon Visitor Center is an excellent example of sustainable design.NPS

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Temperature (°F)

Average high 52 57 63 73 83 93 100 97 91 78 63 53 Average low 29 31 36 43 52 60 68 66 60 49 37 30 Record high 71 78 86 94 102 114 115 111 110 97 83 71 Record low –2 4 12 23 22 40 51 50 33 23 13 6 Days above 90°F 0 0 0 1 8 21 30 28 18 3 0 0Days below 32°F 19 14 10 3 0 0 0 0 0 1 9 18

Precipitation (inches)

Average 1.6 1.6 1.7 1.3 0.7 0.6 0.8 1.6 0.8 1.0 1.2 1.5 Record high 7.5 6.7 7.1 4.4 3.0 4.0 3.6 4.8 6.7 3.3 3.2 4.3 Record snowfall 26 18 14 3 1 0 0 0 1 1 5 21 Thunderstorms 0 0 0 1 4 5 14 15 5 2 0 0

Climate

Temperatures at higher elevations, including the Kolob Canyons area of the park, may be 5 to 10 degrees cooler than Zion Canyon.

Map and Guide 7

Zion Natural History Association

Zion Canyon Field Institute Outdoor Learning Adventures

Dec 5 Thursday TrekDec 7-8 Winter PhotographyFeb 8 Native Plant Seed PropagationMar 21 Poetry in the ParkMar 27 Thursday TrekApr 10 Thursday TrekApr 11 Mojave WildflowersApr 12 Zion Geology

All classes include moderate to strenuous hiking. Most classes include an indoor component such as a lecture, slide presentation, demonstration, or time to examine animal or plant specimens.

The Zion Natural History Association (ZNHA) is a non-profit organization that began in 1929 to support education, research, publications, and other programs for the benefit of Zion National Park, Cedar Breaks National Monument, and Pipe Spring National Monument. Financial support by ZNHA members, combined with sales from our bookstores, provides these parks with approximately $600,000 in annual aid.

ZION CANYON FIELD INSTITUTE

The Zion Canyon Field Institute educates and inspires visitors about the greater Zion National Park ecosystem and environment. ZCFI is the educational division of the non-profit cooperating association Zion Natural History Association. These workshops take place in and around Zion National Park, Cedar Breaks National Monument, and Pipe Spring National Monument.

OUTDOOR LEARNING ADVENTURES

Hike to a hanging garden where vibrant columbine grow next to scarlet monkey flowers. Relax while a geologist explains the wonders of Zion in a small group setting. Enjoy a discussion by the Virgin River about water issues in the West. Wade into The Narrows and plunge into a service project to keep it pristine. These are just a few of the experiences that you can enjoy during our workshops.

SERVICE PROJECTS

Participants have the opportunity to get a backstage view of Zion, learn intensively about a single subject, and contribute to a project that benefits the park.

PRIVATE WORKSHOPS

Our Custom Explore Zion program provides private workshops for small groups scheduled at your convenience.

REGISTRATION

Pick up the course schedule at any of the park’s bookstores. To register for a course, please visit www.zionpark.org, call 435 772-3264 or 800 635-3959, or stop by the Zion Canyon Visitor Center Bookstore. Fees for one-day workshops are $45 to $60 per day.

MEMBERSHIP

Become a member of ZNHA and enjoy benefits for yourself today, while you help Zion tomorrow. ZNHA supports the educational outreach and the Junior Ranger programs for youth, publishes books on Zion, contributes to park ranger-led programs, and provides free visitor information about the park.

Join us as a member and receive a twenty-percent discount on all purchases at ZNHA bookstores and many ZCFI workshops. Members also receive discounts at participating associations, our quarterly e-newsletter, and the biannual Sojourns publication. Most importantly, your membership helps ensure future educational and research activities in Zion National Park.

MEMBERSHIP LEVEL OPTIONS

• Individual Sojourns $45• Family Sojourns $60• Contributor $100• Advocate $250• Donor $500

ZNHA BOOKSTORES

Be sure to pick up a copy of the award-winning Zion Adventure Guide

for $16.99, available at the ZNHA bookstores located in the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, Zion Human History Museum, and at the Kolob Canyons Visitor Center. Visit the bookstores for a variety of interpretive products to enhance your experience in Zion.

ZION NATIONAL PARK ORIENTATION FILM

Enjoy the official Zion National Park orientation film in your own living room. Learn about plants, animals, geology, park history, and what to see and do in Zion National Park. DVD, 22 minutes, for $14.95.

MAPS OF ZION

The bookstore sells a wide variety of topographic maps, geologic maps, and maps on CD.

To find out more about the programs and publications available through the Zion Natural History Association, please visit our website at www.zionpark.org or call 800 635-3959.

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Large vehicles may only travel through the tunnel from:

• November 3 to March 8 from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm

• March 9 into May from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm

PROHIBITED VEHICLES

Bicycles and pedestrians are not permitted in the tunnel. Vehicles not permitted in the tunnel

include the following:

• vehicles over 13’1” tall• semi-trucks and commercial vehicles• vehicles carrying hazardous materials• vehicles weighing more than 50,000 lbs• combined vehicles or buses over 50’

LARGE VEHICLE PARKING

Many parking areas in Zion National Park are not intended for large vehicles. Please pay

attention to posted size restrictions. Vehicles longer than 19 feet may not park at Weeping Rock at any time. At the Temple of Sinawava, vehicles longer than 19 feet may park in designated parallel

North

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Lake Powell

Colorado Rive

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Virgin

River

Lake Mead

CedarBreaksNM

BryceCanyon

NationalPark

Glen CanyonNational

Recreation Area

Grand Staircase-Escalante

National Monument

Lake MeadNational

Recreation AreaLake MeadNational Recreation Area

Grand Canyon-ParashantNational

Monument

Pipe SpringNational

Monument

Grand Canyon

National Park

VermilionCliffs

NationalMonument

Dirt roads maybe impassable

when wet

Road closed in winter

KaibabNational

Forest

KaibabNational Forest

St.George

Mesquite

Hurricane

Fredonia

Tuweep

Page

JacobLake

Time zones

Nevada is in the Pacific Time Zone.

Utah is in the Mountain Time Zone.

Arizona is in the Mountain Time Zone(daylight-saving time is not observed).

Kanab

CedarCity

Panguitch

Long ValleyJunction

Mt. CarmelJunction

Snow CanyonState Park

Coral PinkSand Dunes

State Park

Valleyof Fire

StatePark

KOLOBCANYONS

ZIONCANYON

NORTH RIM

Henderson

LasVegas

To LosAngelesand SanDiego Tusayan

CameronGrand Canyon

Village

Desert View

La Verkin

Parowan

To SaltLake City

Zion National Park

TransportationPARKING

From October 27 through March 31, the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is open to private vehicles.

Improper parking is unsafe and damages park resources. Park in designated spaces only and turn off your engine when your vehicle is stopped. Parking regulations are strictly enforced. Citations are issued for violations of signed no parking areas, traffic obstruction, and damage to resources or government property. Please park responsibly.

PRIVATE TAXIS

You may choose to start your hiking trip in a different location than your destination. Private

shuttle and taxi services are available.

OTHER VEHICLES

Other vehicles such as ATVs and OHVs are not permitted in Zion National Park.

Large VehiclesThe Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel connects Zion Canyon to the east side of the park. It was built in the 1920s when large

vehicles were much less common. Vehicles 11’4” tall or taller, or 7’10” wide or wider, require one-lane traffic control through the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel. Because of the tunnel dimensions, large vehicles cannot travel in a single lane through the tunnel. Nearly all RVs, buses, trailers, fifth-wheels, dual-wheel trucks, campers, and boats require traffic control through the tunnel.

TUNNEL TRAFFIC CONTROL

Visitors requiring traffic control through the tunnel must pay a $15 fee per vehicle in addition to the

entrance fee. Pay this fee at the park entrance station before driving to the tunnel. The fee is good for two trips through the tunnel for the same vehicle during a seven-day period.

Rangers will stop oncoming traffic and you will drive down the center of the road. We apologize for the delays that may result from this safety precaution.

NPS

8 Map and Guide

11’4”3.4 m

7’10”2.4 m

Vehicles over 11’4” (3.4 m) tall or 7’10” (2.4 m) wide, including mirrors, awnings, and jacks, will require traffic control in the tunnel. Single-axle vehicles may not exceed 40’ in length.

spaces and in front of the shade structure. Buses with a capacity of 16 or more may park at the Checkerboard Mesa pullout, but may not park between Checkerboard Mesa and the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel.

40’15.2 m

The printing of this newspaper was made possible by the Zion Natural History Association.

Printed with

SOY INKPrinted on recycled paper. Please recycle again.